Pope John Paul II

A vigorous older man leads a party of hikers along a mountain trail, pauses beside a waterfall, naps under a tree after a sandwich-and-soft-d rink lunch. A typical day in the country--except when the hale sexagenarian happens to be Pope John Paul II, taking a rare and precious break from papal responsibilities. His doctor is known to have repeatedly urged him to get more exercise, and he has long had an enthusiasm for outdoor activity. The outing, with his secretary, Stanislaw Dziwisz, some friends and ever present bodyguards, apparently took place last year during his summer vacation in an isolated area...

Want the full story?

Subscribe Now

Subscribe
Subscribe

Learn more about the benefits of being a TIME subscriber

If you are already a subscriber sign up — registration is free!